The 2009 Summer Seminar on World Affairs took place June 15-19 at Duquesne University. Read more about the work our Summer Seminar participants did below.
You can start by viewing this short film and reading a copy of the program. Jettie, a Summer Seminar participant from The Ellis School, made a video that highlights student opinions of the speakers and topics. The program has information about how the Summer Seminar was structured and biographies of the speakers from each day.
We have also included links to the policy scenarios and other resources for each day of the Summer Seminar that the students used in their discussions. Additionally, several participants wrote journal entries about their experiences.
Monday, June 15
The Changing Dynamics of America and Asia, Dennis Unkovic, Esq.
Dennis Unkovic, the speaker for the day, taught us today about the issues facing Asia and America's relationship. We were asked to answer four questions on how to solve the problem if asked by President Obama: blocking the sale of a military missile defense system by Boeing to Taiwan; a possible Congressional response to proposed legislation; whether or not send US aircraft carriers; and lastly a question dealing with oil supplies. Together our group discussed all four issues and came up with a common agreement for each. Our group felt that there should be a more aggressive approach to the situation, by military means if necessary. When we convened to share our decision on the matter, I saw that no two groups had the same take on the situation. In some cases, groups wanted to have a closer tie to China and in others it was Taiwan. Some of the groups had relatively similar decisions, but all shared a particular insight to how a conflict could be resolved. In other groups, there were issues that would not be resolved so easily. It became apparent that solutions to a problem could work in the end, or fail miserably. All of the groups discovered that with each decision made, there are particular consequences to follow; some minor and others major, but solutions to a conflict are always there.
In conclusion, the first day at the Summer Seminar on World Affairs was a truly educational experience. Though the issues presented today were highly controversial, all of us grasped the moral and economic sides to certain scenarios, and furthermore came understand that there is always more than one solution to an issue. It became clear that the decisions political figures, leaders, and the people behind them make are controversial but essential in shaping our world into what it is today. Jettie, The Ellis School (Light Blue Group)
The speaker created for us a scenario in which the U.S. was placed in conflict with China over the possible sale of a defense system to Taiwan. When we all shared our group decisions, it was fascinating to see how such a small group could come up with such radically different policies. For example, while some groups gave in to China’s every wish and others threatened near war, my less radical group solved the conflict by making deals with China because of its involvement in our economy. I, the lone dissenter, strongly suggested that we side with Taiwan because of its support of the US and democracy in East Asia. Even though I disagreed with them on almost everything, my group encouraged me to share my minority report in front of the group, something that made me feel so much more comfortable with voicing my opposing views in the face of an overwhelming majority. Lauren, Oakland Catholic High School (Gray Group)
Tuesday, June 16
The African Century: Renaissance, Humanism, and the Emerging World Order, Dr. Jean-Jacques Ngor-Sene
The focus for today’s discussion was Africa and internal conflict within its borders. Dr. Sene spoke to us about Africa and possibly a new deal for the continent by first giving us some background information on the continent itself, providing us with sufficient facts that would help us in our later discussions.
The scenario for the day was to analyze and discuss problems occurring in Africa from a list and to choose solutions that we believed could help. We had to decide if the group known as AFRICOM should be dissolved, and what other options there could be. In the end each group had to decide which four or five of these nine potential solutions were most important; a job easier said than done.
My group decided that each of the solutions was highly important but obviously, some had to be done. We decided that options one, three, five, and nine were the most important. We felt that to help Africa in the most productive way possible, there would be a need to address somewhat moral issues first such and the unification of Africa and to then ‘globalize’ it. We felt as though Africa needed to follow this path in order for proper government and economic gain to occur. Also, my group felt as though humanitarian aid needed to continue. Our group did not think in the end that AFRICOM should be dissolved but instead be turned into to a system that was more militarily based. Though some parts varied, the root of the solution was to turn Africa into a stable and unified continent. Jettie, The Ellis School (Light Blue Group)
The goal of today was to create a realistic project to help a specific region. The region in Africa that we chose was the Democratic Republic of Congo. We basically wanted to strengthen the economy and focus on humanitarian programs. We thought that boosting the economy would in turn help several other aspects in the region. I think that we were very productive and came up with many excellent ideas. William, Brashear High School (Gray Group)
Wednesday, June 17
Pakistan and Afghanistan: New Strategies, Fawad Butt and Ethan Casey
In today’s lecture, both of the speakers told us about controversial issues in Afghanistan and Pakistan. They discussed issues varying from drone attacks to the Lawyer Movement that is slowly starting to gain significant influence in Pakistan. President Obama’s speech in Cairo was also mentioned in the lecture. The speech’s sincerity and understanding towards the Muslim world are key aspects as to why some say that the speech was historic. Both speakers also mentioned the terror that is occurring in both Pakistan and Afghanistan.
The scenario given to us on this topic was highly complex as well. In the scenario, we were advisors to President Obama and were to find the best way towards peace in the region. Our group decided that a stable government should be a priority to the aid of the region. If delegates would be sent to those regions and if education would be promoted, then it would provide a solid foundation for stable governance. Our group also suggested stopping active military force. Stability, not necessarily power, was essential in relation to the military.
Drug production was also a problem. Even though the poppy seed is essential in Afghanistan’s economy, we decided that an alternative export that could yield a higher income would be more productive. Negotiations and discussions would also be an important factor within the region as well. In the end, our group decided to get rid of the policy that the Bush administration enacted in relation to terrorism because we felt that anyone that intentionally supports terrorism is an enemy.
After the seminar, I was able to attend the taping of the World Affairs Council’s Global Press Conference on KQV radio with the two speakers. Fortunately, I was able to jot down a few notes. Ethan Casey and Fawad Butt both talked about Pakistan, al-Qaeda, economics, the Lawyer’s Movement, and even education (not bad for a time limit of only 27 minutes). They concluded that if there was an investment and proper ‘reconstruction’ in the region Pakistan would be able to properly recover and prosper. The topics discussed today in both the seminar and at the radio station were all important perspectives on the situations and conflicts that are occurring in the countries of Pakistan and Afghanistan. Only with proper knowledge and solutions to the problems mentioned can we can hope for peace in that region. Jettie, The Ellis School (Light Blue Group)
Today was, I think, the most difficult day so far this week at the Summer Seminar on World Affairs, because of the topic: Afghanistan and Pakistan. We were asked to “advise the President” on issues such as the support of stable governance and security, drug production, diplomatic negotiations, and the policies of the Bush administration. While I personally had no idea how to even start to combat all of the issues in this region of the world, my group members had some interesting things to say.
We decided that in order to support stable governance in both countries, we should send culturally-educated delegates to the region, and educate the public about democracy and the goals of the United States. We also decided that we should stop active U.S. military involvement, as most civilians strongly dislike it. Lastly, we should get more countries involved in the region, although not militarily.
We realize that the production of poppies in Afghanistan is a huge part of the economy, but we think that the product could be put to better uses than heroin. We suggested that Afghanistan instead grow another crop, but are unsure of what exactly would thrive in that climate. We’ll leave that up to the experts. Also, poppy production could be used constructively, to make things such as morphine, or even poppy seed bagels! Our goal is for Afghanistan to be self-sufficient, but also to open up their market to other countries.
We want to initiate party talks within each country, but have India only partially involved, because of its ongoing conflict with Pakistan. India should definitely receive information and be involved in discussion, because the Kashmir situation is in extremely close proximity to India. However, because of the ongoing struggle between Pakistan and India, we do not believe that India should have any troops in Pakistan, if only because of what Pakistani civilians would think of that.
Finally, we decided to get rid of the Bush administration’s policy that says that those who harbored terrorists would be considered and treated as terrorists themselves. Our group had an interesting discussion about the definition of a terrorist. One definition that seemed obvious was something or someone that “spreads goals through violence.” However, this could apply to the U.S. bombing civilians…interesting.
All in all, a very complicated day at the Summer Seminar for World Affairs, although I definitely learned a lot and have some new questions about the region and the ethics of the U.S. armed forces. Kathleen, North Hills Senior High School (Light Blue Group)
Today, our group talked about the different problems in both Pakistan and Afghanistan. The underlying problem with both of these countries is that no organized government is in control and each government has difficulties trying to correct the problems of their respective areas. Our group attempted to solve the overall government problems by relying on non-government organizations because these groups could help to bring more stability to the region. Also, in addressing the speakers’ ideas, we wanted to create two separate councils of Pakistani or Afghani citizens and have these groups coordinate with NGOs. To solve the economic problems, we figured a stable government could help create a stronger economy. However, we also hoped that the lumber industry could be reenergized and the poppy plant could be used for more constructive purposes. For example, American pharmaceutical companies could invest in Afghanistan because these companies could use the poppy for medicinal purposes. We also thought that the Bush policy of those who harbor terrorists being classified as terrorists was extreme and unnecessary and should not continue. Danny, Pine-Richland High School (Yellow Group)
Meet speakers Fawad Butt and Ethan Casey and hear their reactions to the day's discussion!
Ethan also wrote a column for a Pakistani newspaper about his time in Pittsburgh. Click here to read it.
Thursday, June 18
The Future of U.S.-European Relations, Dr. Allyson M. Lowe
Dr. Lowe spoke about the European Union, its history, and how important it is to the world. In the scenario for the topic, we were asked to come up with a policy that would emphasize our relationships with other countries. Our group stressed that other states should be involved with what is going on in Europe. Jettie, The Ellis School (Light Blue Group)
Acting as Cabinet members of the Departments of Defense, State, Commerce and Energy, the yellow group gave advice to President Obama in areas involving U.S. – European relations. From the beginning, our discussion today was different: we ‘popcorn read’ the scenario, used the white board in our discussion room to organize our thoughts, and throughout the entire discussion were video recorded by a group member so he could show his teacher what goes on during our discussions. All of this change led to a great atmosphere to find our solution to the scenario. We decided to advise President Obama to emphasize, in our relationship with the E.U., a revised transatlantic treaty and achieving peace in certain regions. We also wanted to collaborate with the E.U. to implement more green ideas to decrease our dependence on oil, and collaborate on issues surrounding North Korea and the conflict in the Middle East. Rachel, Fox Chapel Area High School (Yellow Group)
Our team would try to strengthen and create a new transatlantic agenda. Some of the dividing issues that will be insurmountable and hard to agree on would be the economy, the war on terror, and oil. A few of the things that we could collaborate with the European Union on would be green energy, less dependence on oil, job security, the war on terror, and issues surrounding China, Russia and North Korea. Jared, McKeesport Area High School (Yellow Group)
Friday, June 19
Understanding Global Trends, Dr. Schuyler Foerster
Today’s speaker was my hands- down favorite of all this week, Dr. Schuyler Foerster, president of the World Affairs Council of Pittsburgh. Dr. Foerster went over EVERYTHING. He discussed some history with the students that I believe everyone should come to understand. He said that what we as people must understand is to learn from our past, the mistakes especially. I realized that many of the situations that we are involved with today are the same problems that we had in the past (we just didn’t learn from them).
Also, I realized that throughout history, most of the huge mistakes are a big cycle. They keep happening over and over. The only difference is that they vary in scale. I believe that one of the main points that the students took from the lecture today is to think before you act. I know that sounds so simple to do, but it is crucial to ever achieving the peace in this world that we always hope for. If new generations of leaders stepped on the shoulders of the fathers (and mothers) of this country and used that guidance to help other countries, then the world would be a better place. Also, I believe that Sky was saying to learn as much as possible. It is only through learning from our mistakes can we hope for a brighter future.
The scenario for the day was broader than the others this week. It specifically wanted us to address many issues relating to Iran. The scenario wanted us to advise President Obama about the problem and address it. Our group took an assertive stand on the situation in relation to the topic, and advised the president to do the same. Jettie, The Ellis School (Light Blue Group)
You can start by viewing this short film and reading a copy of the program. Jettie, a Summer Seminar participant from The Ellis School, made a video that highlights student opinions of the speakers and topics. The program has information about how the Summer Seminar was structured and biographies of the speakers from each day.
We have also included links to the policy scenarios and other resources for each day of the Summer Seminar that the students used in their discussions. Additionally, several participants wrote journal entries about their experiences.
Monday, June 15
The Changing Dynamics of America and Asia, Dennis Unkovic, Esq.
Monday's program was featured in the Pittsburgh Tribune-Review. "Students wrestle with international issues at Duquesne University seminar."
Student reactions:
Dennis Unkovic, the speaker for the day, taught us today about the issues facing Asia and America's relationship. We were asked to answer four questions on how to solve the problem if asked by President Obama: blocking the sale of a military missile defense system by Boeing to Taiwan; a possible Congressional response to proposed legislation; whether or not send US aircraft carriers; and lastly a question dealing with oil supplies. Together our group discussed all four issues and came up with a common agreement for each. Our group felt that there should be a more aggressive approach to the situation, by military means if necessary. When we convened to share our decision on the matter, I saw that no two groups had the same take on the situation. In some cases, groups wanted to have a closer tie to China and in others it was Taiwan. Some of the groups had relatively similar decisions, but all shared a particular insight to how a conflict could be resolved. In other groups, there were issues that would not be resolved so easily. It became apparent that solutions to a problem could work in the end, or fail miserably. All of the groups discovered that with each decision made, there are particular consequences to follow; some minor and others major, but solutions to a conflict are always there.In conclusion, the first day at the Summer Seminar on World Affairs was a truly educational experience. Though the issues presented today were highly controversial, all of us grasped the moral and economic sides to certain scenarios, and furthermore came understand that there is always more than one solution to an issue. It became clear that the decisions political figures, leaders, and the people behind them make are controversial but essential in shaping our world into what it is today. Jettie, The Ellis School (Light Blue Group)
The speaker created for us a scenario in which the U.S. was placed in conflict with China over the possible sale of a defense system to Taiwan. When we all shared our group decisions, it was fascinating to see how such a small group could come up with such radically different policies. For example, while some groups gave in to China’s every wish and others threatened near war, my less radical group solved the conflict by making deals with China because of its involvement in our economy. I, the lone dissenter, strongly suggested that we side with Taiwan because of its support of the US and democracy in East Asia. Even though I disagreed with them on almost everything, my group encouraged me to share my minority report in front of the group, something that made me feel so much more comfortable with voicing my opposing views in the face of an overwhelming majority. Lauren, Oakland Catholic High School (Gray Group)
Tuesday, June 16
The African Century: Renaissance, Humanism, and the Emerging World Order, Dr. Jean-Jacques Ngor-Sene
Student reactions:
The focus for today’s discussion was Africa and internal conflict within its borders. Dr. Sene spoke to us about Africa and possibly a new deal for the continent by first giving us some background information on the continent itself, providing us with sufficient facts that would help us in our later discussions.
The scenario for the day was to analyze and discuss problems occurring in Africa from a list and to choose solutions that we believed could help. We had to decide if the group known as AFRICOM should be dissolved, and what other options there could be. In the end each group had to decide which four or five of these nine potential solutions were most important; a job easier said than done.
My group decided that each of the solutions was highly important but obviously, some had to be done. We decided that options one, three, five, and nine were the most important. We felt that to help Africa in the most productive way possible, there would be a need to address somewhat moral issues first such and the unification of Africa and to then ‘globalize’ it. We felt as though Africa needed to follow this path in order for proper government and economic gain to occur. Also, my group felt as though humanitarian aid needed to continue. Our group did not think in the end that AFRICOM should be dissolved but instead be turned into to a system that was more militarily based. Though some parts varied, the root of the solution was to turn Africa into a stable and unified continent. Jettie, The Ellis School (Light Blue Group)
The goal of today was to create a realistic project to help a specific region. The region in Africa that we chose was the Democratic Republic of Congo. We basically wanted to strengthen the economy and focus on humanitarian programs. We thought that boosting the economy would in turn help several other aspects in the region. I think that we were very productive and came up with many excellent ideas. William, Brashear High School (Gray Group)
Wednesday, June 17
Pakistan and Afghanistan: New Strategies, Fawad Butt and Ethan Casey
Student reactions:
In today’s lecture, both of the speakers told us about controversial issues in Afghanistan and Pakistan. They discussed issues varying from drone attacks to the Lawyer Movement that is slowly starting to gain significant influence in Pakistan. President Obama’s speech in Cairo was also mentioned in the lecture. The speech’s sincerity and understanding towards the Muslim world are key aspects as to why some say that the speech was historic. Both speakers also mentioned the terror that is occurring in both Pakistan and Afghanistan.The scenario given to us on this topic was highly complex as well. In the scenario, we were advisors to President Obama and were to find the best way towards peace in the region. Our group decided that a stable government should be a priority to the aid of the region. If delegates would be sent to those regions and if education would be promoted, then it would provide a solid foundation for stable governance. Our group also suggested stopping active military force. Stability, not necessarily power, was essential in relation to the military.
Drug production was also a problem. Even though the poppy seed is essential in Afghanistan’s economy, we decided that an alternative export that could yield a higher income would be more productive. Negotiations and discussions would also be an important factor within the region as well. In the end, our group decided to get rid of the policy that the Bush administration enacted in relation to terrorism because we felt that anyone that intentionally supports terrorism is an enemy.
After the seminar, I was able to attend the taping of the World Affairs Council’s Global Press Conference on KQV radio with the two speakers. Fortunately, I was able to jot down a few notes. Ethan Casey and Fawad Butt both talked about Pakistan, al-Qaeda, economics, the Lawyer’s Movement, and even education (not bad for a time limit of only 27 minutes). They concluded that if there was an investment and proper ‘reconstruction’ in the region Pakistan would be able to properly recover and prosper. The topics discussed today in both the seminar and at the radio station were all important perspectives on the situations and conflicts that are occurring in the countries of Pakistan and Afghanistan. Only with proper knowledge and solutions to the problems mentioned can we can hope for peace in that region. Jettie, The Ellis School (Light Blue Group)
Today was, I think, the most difficult day so far this week at the Summer Seminar on World Affairs, because of the topic: Afghanistan and Pakistan. We were asked to “advise the President” on issues such as the support of stable governance and security, drug production, diplomatic negotiations, and the policies of the Bush administration. While I personally had no idea how to even start to combat all of the issues in this region of the world, my group members had some interesting things to say.
We decided that in order to support stable governance in both countries, we should send culturally-educated delegates to the region, and educate the public about democracy and the goals of the United States. We also decided that we should stop active U.S. military involvement, as most civilians strongly dislike it. Lastly, we should get more countries involved in the region, although not militarily.
We realize that the production of poppies in Afghanistan is a huge part of the economy, but we think that the product could be put to better uses than heroin. We suggested that Afghanistan instead grow another crop, but are unsure of what exactly would thrive in that climate. We’ll leave that up to the experts. Also, poppy production could be used constructively, to make things such as morphine, or even poppy seed bagels! Our goal is for Afghanistan to be self-sufficient, but also to open up their market to other countries.
We want to initiate party talks within each country, but have India only partially involved, because of its ongoing conflict with Pakistan. India should definitely receive information and be involved in discussion, because the Kashmir situation is in extremely close proximity to India. However, because of the ongoing struggle between Pakistan and India, we do not believe that India should have any troops in Pakistan, if only because of what Pakistani civilians would think of that.
Finally, we decided to get rid of the Bush administration’s policy that says that those who harbored terrorists would be considered and treated as terrorists themselves. Our group had an interesting discussion about the definition of a terrorist. One definition that seemed obvious was something or someone that “spreads goals through violence.” However, this could apply to the U.S. bombing civilians…interesting.
All in all, a very complicated day at the Summer Seminar for World Affairs, although I definitely learned a lot and have some new questions about the region and the ethics of the U.S. armed forces. Kathleen, North Hills Senior High School (Light Blue Group)
Today, our group talked about the different problems in both Pakistan and Afghanistan. The underlying problem with both of these countries is that no organized government is in control and each government has difficulties trying to correct the problems of their respective areas. Our group attempted to solve the overall government problems by relying on non-government organizations because these groups could help to bring more stability to the region. Also, in addressing the speakers’ ideas, we wanted to create two separate councils of Pakistani or Afghani citizens and have these groups coordinate with NGOs. To solve the economic problems, we figured a stable government could help create a stronger economy. However, we also hoped that the lumber industry could be reenergized and the poppy plant could be used for more constructive purposes. For example, American pharmaceutical companies could invest in Afghanistan because these companies could use the poppy for medicinal purposes. We also thought that the Bush policy of those who harbor terrorists being classified as terrorists was extreme and unnecessary and should not continue. Danny, Pine-Richland High School (Yellow Group)
Meet speakers Fawad Butt and Ethan Casey and hear their reactions to the day's discussion!
Ethan also wrote a column for a Pakistani newspaper about his time in Pittsburgh. Click here to read it.
Thursday, June 18
The Future of U.S.-European Relations, Dr. Allyson M. Lowe
Dr. Lowe's presentation:
Additional readings suggested by Dr. Lowe:
Student reactions:
Dr. Lowe spoke about the European Union, its history, and how important it is to the world. In the scenario for the topic, we were asked to come up with a policy that would emphasize our relationships with other countries. Our group stressed that other states should be involved with what is going on in Europe. Jettie, The Ellis School (Light Blue Group)Acting as Cabinet members of the Departments of Defense, State, Commerce and Energy, the yellow group gave advice to President Obama in areas involving U.S. – European relations. From the beginning, our discussion today was different: we ‘popcorn read’ the scenario, used the white board in our discussion room to organize our thoughts, and throughout the entire discussion were video recorded by a group member so he could show his teacher what goes on during our discussions. All of this change led to a great atmosphere to find our solution to the scenario. We decided to advise President Obama to emphasize, in our relationship with the E.U., a revised transatlantic treaty and achieving peace in certain regions. We also wanted to collaborate with the E.U. to implement more green ideas to decrease our dependence on oil, and collaborate on issues surrounding North Korea and the conflict in the Middle East. Rachel, Fox Chapel Area High School (Yellow Group)
Our team would try to strengthen and create a new transatlantic agenda. Some of the dividing issues that will be insurmountable and hard to agree on would be the economy, the war on terror, and oil. A few of the things that we could collaborate with the European Union on would be green energy, less dependence on oil, job security, the war on terror, and issues surrounding China, Russia and North Korea. Jared, McKeesport Area High School (Yellow Group)
Friday, June 19
Understanding Global Trends, Dr. Schuyler Foerster
2009 Policy Scenario - US New World Order.pdf
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Today’s speaker was my hands- down favorite of all this week, Dr. Schuyler Foerster, president of the World Affairs Council of Pittsburgh. Dr. Foerster went over EVERYTHING. He discussed some history with the students that I believe everyone should come to understand. He said that what we as people must understand is to learn from our past, the mistakes especially. I realized that many of the situations that we are involved with today are the same problems that we had in the past (we just didn’t learn from them).Also, I realized that throughout history, most of the huge mistakes are a big cycle. They keep happening over and over. The only difference is that they vary in scale. I believe that one of the main points that the students took from the lecture today is to think before you act. I know that sounds so simple to do, but it is crucial to ever achieving the peace in this world that we always hope for. If new generations of leaders stepped on the shoulders of the fathers (and mothers) of this country and used that guidance to help other countries, then the world would be a better place. Also, I believe that Sky was saying to learn as much as possible. It is only through learning from our mistakes can we hope for a brighter future.
The scenario for the day was broader than the others this week. It specifically wanted us to address many issues relating to Iran. The scenario wanted us to advise President Obama about the problem and address it. Our group took an assertive stand on the situation in relation to the topic, and advised the president to do the same. Jettie, The Ellis School (Light Blue Group)